BLA Holds Train Passengers Hostage in Balochistan

The BLA’s demands center on pressuring the Pakistani government to release imprisoned activists, escalating their long-standing conflict with the state. The attack, which has garnered widespread attention with over 576,000 viewers online, follows a period of heightened activity by the group, including clashes reported on March 3, 2025. Eyewitnesses and local sources lament the dangers of rail travel in the region, with one commenter noting, “I warned them against traveling by railway, but their heart was set on the train.”

Social media posts and stock video footage circulating online, including clips with millions of views, depict the chaos as the situation unfolds. The confrontation has already resulted in casualties on both sides, with the BLA drawing first blood in this latest escalation. As security forces mobilize to resolve the crisis, the hijacking underscores the volatile security situation in Balochistan and the BLA’s determination to challenge Pakistani authorities.

Attack Unfolds in Tunnel

The trouble began when BLA fighters attended to a railway track near the Mushkaf Tunnel. The force of the explosion derailed the train, leaving it stuck inside the tunnel. Then armed militants stormed on board, shooting at security forces and passengers. “The train was carrying around 450 people, including military, women and children,” he said. Pakistani security forces quickly sealed it off, kicking off a furious gun battle. By the morning of Wednesday, March 12, they rescued 190 hosts, although many are still held in BLA custody.

According to BLA, it had killed more than 30 Pakistani troops in the clash. They’ve given a 48-hour ultimatum for the release of Baloch political prisoners. Failing that, they threaten to kill hostages. “The Pakistani military will be fully responsible for the consequences of the next events,” Jeeyand Baloch, a spokesperson for the BLA, said in a statement Tuesday. The group’s deployment of suicide bombers among the captives has complicated rescue attempts.

A Region in Turmoil

Pakistan’s largest province, Balochistan, has a history of unrest. It is resource-rich in gas, gold and copper, but most residents live in poverty. (BLA) and other separatist groups say the central government plunders these resources while neglecting the needs of local people. For years, they have bombed military outposts, trains and projects associated with China’s Belt and Road scheme. The hijacking of the train is a new escalation in the bloody conflict, as it is the first time the BLA has taken control of a train.

The Jaffar Express has come under fire in the past. Militants attacked it in 2023 but did not capture it. The BLA, this time, did as much prep work, utilizing the natural concealment of the tunnel. Pakistani officials are calling it a terrorist act. Helicopters now fly over the steep Bolan Pass, supporting ground troops. Hospitals in nearby Sibbi are on high alert, treating the wounded — including the train’s driver, who was severely injured.

Hostage Stories Emerge

In chilling tales, those freed described. One, a 49-year-old passenger named Allahditta, said, “I heard a blast, then I heard gunfire. People ducked under seats and rebels dove in.” He and his family got out because of his heart condition. Another survivor, Muhammad Bilal, found it hard to explain the fear. More than a hundred passengers, including 58 men, 31 women and 15 children, escaped to safety in Mach and Quetta. But the families of those who remain in captivity are waiting anxiously.

The B.L.A. says it is holding 214 hostages, most of whom are security personnel. They have threatened to put them on trial in a “Baloch National Court” for supposed crimes against the region. Pakistan’s prime minister, Shehbaz Sharif, condemned the attack, pledging to crush the militants. Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi referred to them as “beasts” for targeting civilians. But the government has not indicated if it will negotiate.

What’s Next for Balochistan?

This crisis could tilt the course of the conflict. The BLA’s brazen tactics illustrate increasing confidence and coordination. If Pakistan goes for a full-blown assault, it puts the lives of hostages at risk and violence in more measures. The BLA could act on these threats, with an accompanying air strikes or delays, exacerbating tensions. The government has a painful decision to make, analysts say: keep talking or go to battle.

Instability in Balochistan also spills into neighbors. Iran and Pakistan have previously fought over border militants. China, which has invested heavily in the region, such as the Gwadar port, is watching closely. A long stalemate could affect trade and security in the region. For now, the world is watching Bolan Pass, where more than 200 lives are at stake.

The clock ticks toward the BLA’s deadline, which expires Thursday afternoon, March 13. The Pakistani forces are scrambling to free the leftover hostages. Civilians caught in the crossfire hope for peace, yet Balochistan’s deep wounds seem to promise more trouble ahead. The government has to move quickly to prevent a bloody results.

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